Uttar Pradesh government bans use of polythene bags across the State

Uttar Pradesh government has decided to enforce the ban on the use of polythene across the state to protect the environment and public health.

Decision in this regard was taken in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav as per the directives of Allahabad High Court to prohibit its usage.

Key facts

The ban prohibits manufacturing, importing, purchasing and storage of all kinds of plastic carry bags in state.

Henceforth, no shopkeeper, wholesaler or retailer in the state would be able to use, store or purchase plastic carry bags for eatable or non-eatable items.

However, the ban will not be applicable on carry bags used for packaging purposes. State Government is also looking at alternative material that can be distributed to the people.

​Background

On November 18, 2015 Allahabad High Court had directed the state government to issue a notification for complete ban on the sale of polythene across the state by December 31, 2015 in view of its negative impact on people’s health as well as environment.